February 26th, 2025.
Topic: What is the concluding paragraph and transition word?
Summary on the topic
In this class it was explained that the closing paragraph is a critical part of any essay because it envelops your ideas and leaves a lasting impression on your reader. We saw that a solid conclusion should reaffirm the thesis, summarize the key points discussed in the body of the essay and then move from those specific details to a broader statement. This could include evaluating the importance of your findings, predicting future implications or even issuing a call to action.
We also review the general structure of an essay that generally follows this order: an introduction that begins in general and is reduced to the thesis, followed by paragraphs of the body that support its argument and, finally, a conclusion that begins with specific points and expands to a more general final thought.
Another important topic covered was the use of transition words in the final paragraph. These words and phrases are essential to create a smooth flow between your ideas, signaling to the reader that you are ending the discussion. Examples include phrases such as "in conclusion", "to summarize", "therefore" and "ultimately". Something extra from the class, examples were viewed on video and we did exercises to practice the integration of these transitions in an effective way.
This was the video seen in class on the concluding paragraph: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7gf71u-b-xo
Just like this summary video about the use of TRANSITIONS in the paragraph: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dwJSxEeRTmo
And finally TRANSITION WORDS most used by category: https://youtu.be/STiQ4BEV8ug?si=V5u-cNMPgtMGebO3
What was understood from the class?
In this class it was understood that the conclusion is not only about finishing an essay, but about reinforcing the main idea and leaving a strong final impression. A good conclusion should clearly reiterate the thesis, summarize the key points and provide a broader perspective. In addition to the importance of transition words so that the conclusion flows smoothly. In general, it can be mentioned that the conclusion is just as important as the introduction and the body, since it gives the rehearsal a sense of integrity.
What wasn't understood from the class?
What was difficult for us in the whole class is how to make the conclusion more impactful without just repeating the same ideas. In addition to the fact that it is a little difficult to know exactly how broad our final statement should be and when finalizing transition words naturally in writing it is something that needs to be practiced.
Class products or activities
In this class we do two exercises to reinforce what was studied in the class.
EXERCISE: FROM THE CONCLUDING PARAGRAPHS BELOW, TRY TO FIGURE OUT THE THESIS THAT WAS DEVELOPED IN THESE ESSAYS.
In conclusion, although the critical environmental situation in Japan is being remedied in its most superficial and short time effects, Japanese population is worried about the impact of the nuclear disaster on their quality of life and the new generations stability. This is clearly visible on the expansion of anti-nuclear power movements in Tokyo. Japanese and the whole world are talking about a new Chernobyl accident. Despite of the differences between the causes which produced Fukushima and Chernobyl nuclear disasters, the consequences are the same from the human point of view. But most important, the message is the same: Insanity of nuclear power could destroy our civilization.
Thesis: The insanity of nuclear power poses a severe threat capable of destroying our civilization.
Concluding, we identified three types of negotiators in Foreign Affairs: Foxes, Bloodhounds and Donkeys. The first of them, "Foxes", take too many risks what could be bad for the objectives of the negotiation. Second ones, "Bloodhounds", are characterized by their positivism and capacity to influence every moment. Finally, "Donkeys", are really secure people which are going to defend their interest until the end. Then, it is important in Foreign Affairs to distinguish good every type of negotiator to learn how our personality is. This knowledge is going to permit us to analyze how to deal with specific personalities and how to reach easily our objectives.
Thesis: The dangers of nuclear power represent a profound threat to humanity, with catastrophic consequences that could jeopardize the stability of our civilization.
GROUPS, READ THE PARAGRAPHS BELOW AND ADD THE TRANSITION WORDS YOU CONSIDER APPROPRIATE. AFTER SOME MINUTES, SHARE YOUR WORK WITH THE TEACHER.
Comparison & Contrast
1.Cats and dogs are both popular pets, but they differ in significant ways. Cats are independent and require minimal attention, whereas dogs are social animals that need constant interaction. Cats groom themselves, making them lower maintenance, while dogs need regular baths and grooming. On the other hand, dogs provide companionship and protection, whereas cats are often more aloof. Despite their differences, both animals can form strong bonds with their owners. Ultimately, choosing between a cat and a dog depends on the owner's lifestyle and preferences.
Cause & Effect
2. Pollution in urban areas has led to serious health problems. Air pollution from vehicles and factories contributes to respiratory diseases such as asthma and bronchitis. As result of contaminated water sources cause outbreaks of illnesses like cholera. The increase in pollution has also been linked to higher rates of heart disease and premature deaths. People living in highly polluted cities often experience lower life expectancy. Therefore pollution continues to rise, future generations may face even more severe health consequences. For this reason reducing pollution is crucial for improving public health and quality of life.
Process
Planting a vegetable garden requires careful planning and execution.To begin with . The gardener must select an appropriate location with enough sunlight. Next the soil must be prepared by removing weeds and adding compost for nutrients. Moreover, seeds or seedlings should be planted at the correct depth and spacing. At the same time planting, the garden needs regular watering and weeding to ensure healthy growth. Later. the vegetables reach maturity, they can be harvested and enjoyed. Finally, These steps, anyone can successfully grow fresh and healthy produce at home.
Chronological Order
The Wright brothers' journey to inventing the airplane began with small experiments. They first studied birds' flight patterns and built simple gliders. Then, testing various designs, they developed a powered aircraft with a lightweight engine. On December 17, 1903, they successfully flew their airplane for the first time. Later, they improved their designs, leading to more stable and longer flights. Their innovation laid the foundation for modern aviation. Today,, air travel is a crucial part of global transportation, thanks to their pioneering efforts.
Argumentative/Persuasive
Colleges must introduce new career-focused programs to meet the demands of today’s job market. Nowadays, traditional degrees no longer guarantee employment, as industries rapidly evolve with advancements in technology and globalization. For example, fields such as artificial intelligence, renewable energy, and cybersecurity require specialized skills that many current programs fail to address. Therefore, expanding college curricula to include emerging careers will better prepare students for the workforce and increase their employability. On the other hand, some may argue that classic disciplines remain essential, but adapting to change ensures long-term career success. Ultimately, investing in modern career paths empowers students and strengthens the economy.
Diagrams and pictures on the subject
Glossary New Terms learned in this class
Rephrase: To express an idea in different words without changing its meaning.
Implications: Consequences or effects that may result from an idea or action.
Cohesive: Something that has a logical and smooth structure, where all parts are well connected.
Emphatic: Expressing something clearly and strongly to highlight its importance.
Forecast: To predict or anticipate something that may happen in the future based on current information.
Call to action: A phrase or statement that encourages or motivates the reader to take a specific action.
New Material
Adding to what was studied in class, these inputs are additional to better understand the topic.
Video 1
Tech meets Rhet: English Composition Resources. “How to Transition Between Paragraphs and Sentences: Transition words with examples”. YouTube Video, 4:38. January, 4th 2022. https://youtu.be/aTmCWLIA0K8?si=SBhgytoLojy0DMO9
Video 2
GRASPhopper. “How to Identify and Write Concluding Sentences in Paragraphs”. YouTube Video, 8:03. June, 22nd, 2021. https://youtu.be/YkChPmys3QY?feature=shared